Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition that is characterized by symmetric joint inflammation. It is common for RA to cause swelling that affects the same joint on both sides of the body simultaneously. Symptoms may include morning stiffness, joint pain or tenderness with motion, swelling of soft tissues and subcutaneous nodules. As RA progresses, it may result in joint destruction, deformity and chronic pain. The condition occurs more frequently in women than men, and symptoms usually begin between the ages of 25 to 50 years. Many naturopathic doctors believe that food sensitivities, heavy metal toxicity, a high-fat diet, hypothyroidism and low anti-oxidant status may contribute to the progression of RA. Several herbs have been shown to improve RA symptoms when used appropriately. These herbs offer a safe, inexpensive and effective means for improving RA with little to no side effects.
Curcumin
Curcumin, or turmeric, has been used for centuries in India as a treatment for RA. An article in the 2009 edition of "The International Journal of Biochemistry and Cell Biology" concluded that Curcumin demonstrates potent anti-inflammatory actions that may be effective for the treatment of auto-immune conditions, such as RA. No significant toxicity has been reported following either short- or long-term administration of Curcumin extract. The usual dosage of concentrated standardized Curcumin extract is 250 to 2,000 mg daily.
Devil's Claw
Harpagophytum procumbens is an herb more commonly referred to as Devil's Claw. It is a popular medicinal plant among herbalists who use it to reduce pain and inflammation, and it has gained a strong reputation for its ability to improve degenerative joint diseases, such as RA. According to the March, 2007 edition of "The Journal of Phytotherapy Research," clinical trials support Devil's Claw as a beneficial treatment for pain and improved joint mobility in a number of musculoskeletal conditions. The exact mechanism by which Devil's Claw reduces inflammation is still under investigation by researchers. Devil's Claw is commonly administered as 300 to 1,200 mg daily in divided doses. This herb may be contraindicated in those with gastric or duodenal ulcers.
Boswellia Serrata
Boswellia serrata has a long history of usage as both a ceremonial incense (referred to as frankincense) and a medicinal herb. As a medicine, it has been widely recognized for its ability to decrease inflammation and pain. The herb contains "boswellic acids" thought to be primarily responsible for the plant's medicinal action, however new resesarch has discovered that the herb contains several other constituents that contribute to its overall anti-inflammatory effect. A typical adult dosage of Boswellia serrata gum extract is 200 to 800 mg daily in divided doses.
References
- "The International Journal of Biochemistry and Cell Biology;" Potential therapeutic effects of curcumin, the anti-inflammatory agent, against neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, pulmonary, metabolic, autoimmune and neoplastic diseases. Aggarwal BB, et al. Jan, 2009
- "Journal of Phytotherapy Research;" A review of the biological and potential therapeutic actions of Harpagophytum procumbens. Grant L, et al. March, 2007
